Freeze Fresh Tomato Spaghetti Sauce for Later
There’s nothing quite like the satisfying taste of fresh tomato spaghetti sauce, but let’s face it, the process of making it from scratch every time you want to enjoy it can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. That’s where the brilliant idea of freezing fresh tomato spaghetti sauce comes in.
By making a big batch of spaghetti sauce and freezing it for later use, you can enjoy the fresh flavors of homemade sauce without all the effort every time you make pasta. Plus, it’s a great way to preserve an abundance of ripe tomatoes from your garden or local farmer’s market.
To help you make the most delicious and convenient fresh tomato spaghetti sauce, we’ve provided a simple and versatile recipe along with the instructions for freezing it for later use.
Fresh Tomato Spaghetti Sauce Recipe:
Ingredients:
– 6 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until they are translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the tomatoes have broken down and released their juices.
3. Stir in the dried herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the tomato paste and sugar (if using) and let the sauce simmer for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature.
5. Once the sauce has cooled, transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Label the containers with the date and store in the freezer for up to 6 months.
When you’re ready to use the sauce, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or on the countertop for a few hours. Heat it in a saucepan over medium heat and serve over your favorite pasta.
By following this simple recipe and freezing the sauce for later use, you can enjoy the fresh taste of homemade tomato spaghetti sauce without the hassle of making it every time you crave pasta. Plus, it’s a great way to take advantage of an abundance of fresh tomatoes and preserve their flavor for months to come. So give it a try and savor the convenience of having delicious tomato sauce at your fingertips whenever you need it.